Tropical Storm Danny heads north

Melissa K. Steele

Friday

Aug 28, 2009 at 12:01 AMAug 28, 2009 at 5:03 PM

Wind, high surf and rain expected this weekend as Danny tries to become a hurricane.

This weekend looks like it could get a bit soggy at times due to Tropical Storm Danny. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are predicated over the next couple of days with some possible clearing on Sunday. Temperatures are expected in the mid to upper 80s.

Tropical Storm Danny is moving northwest towards the Outer Banks of North Carolina and National Hurricane Center experts expect it will pick up speed as it heads north over the weekend.
Winds are expected to reach 40 to 65 miles per hour with some gusts higher.

Dangerous surf is expected along the east coast because of Danny, experts say.

Delaware shores will experience high surf and rip currents and the Sussex County Emergency Operations Center urges the public to use caution if visiting area beaches.

“Hurricane Bill last weekend demonstrated just how dangerous these storms can be, even if they’re well over the horizon,” said Sussex County EOC Director Joseph L. Thomas. “There were numerous water rescues up and down the coast. As with any tropical system, the public needs to respect the risks and be mindful of the storm path and forecast over the next few days.”

Tropical Storm Danny is expected to become a minimal hurricane Saturday, he said, causing ocean swells of 8 to 10 feet. Heavy showers and some beach erosion are possible, he added, Friday night into midday Saturday.

Beach goers should heed the direction of lifeguards on duty, Thomas said.